BARNEGAT LIGHT, N.J. ― The Coast Guard led a rescue of five adults and four children from a sinking boat near the north jetty here Sunday.

A nearby boater contacted watchstanders at Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light at about 1:30 p.m. to report seeing the recreational boat hitting the submerged jetty, and that the boat was quickly sinking.

A 25-foot Response Boat − Small crew and a 47-foot Motor Life Boat crew from the station responded to the distress. Upon arriving on scene, the RBS crew rescued six people from the water, and Sea Tow crewmembers, who were already on scene, rescued the other three. The Sea Tow crew also dislodged the boat from the jetty.

All of the people were transported back to the station where their care was transferred to awaiting emergency medical personnel.

“Everyone saved from the water today was wearing a life jacket," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Edward Powell, a crewmember from the station. "The Coast Guard highly recommends wearing a life jacket at all times on the water, and by law, children must wear one. The boat sank very quickly; this is the perfect example of why always wearing a life jacket on the water is the best way to ensure the safety of yourself and your family.”

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